Chris Taylor

Connect Who or what inspires you to cook?

I had an interview at Per Se a couple of weeks ago. I have been trying to work for Thomas Keller for the past twenty years. I didn't get the position I applied for. But I had an interview in Manhattan, and I come from a small island in Florida and started out at my family's seafood market, delivering seafood to restaurants. That's when a chef showed me the French Laundry book. So I've made it a long way, but I'm just getting started. My inspiration is to take this career as far as possible.

What's your all time favorite dish to make?

I love eggplant parmesan, i think it defines a good italian restaurant. Its not dificult but its can be messed up if not done correctly. And it really lets the ingredients shine. It also reminds me of when i started cooking with my sicilian grandmother as a child. I order it anytime i see it on a menu.

What would you do with the $25,000?

I would buy an apartment closer to New York City. I currently live too far to drive in and work or stage. I don't make much money working in the hospitality industry, and having this money would change my life and allow me to be close to these Michelin-star restaurants. Having this title on my resume will open doors to those Michelin-star restaurants so I can continue my training to be the best chef I can be.